The Department of War's Cyber Academic Engagement Office (CAEO) serves as a vital bridge between our nation's most pressing security needs and the educational institutions that will solve them. Tasked with inspiring and cultivating the next generation of cyber talent, the CAEO is committed to building a "seamless ecosystem" that supports students from their first K-12 cyber club to a high-impact career in public service. This session will explore how the DoW is partnering with educators through initiatives like CyberPatriot, the Cyber Service Academy (CSA) scholarship program, and the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) framework. We will discuss how aligning curriculum with these blueprints enhances graduate employability and directly supports the Department's shift toward skills-based hiring. Looking ahead to initiatives like AI4WARD and our Strategic Foresight efforts, attendees will learn how K-12 and higher education stakeholders can collaborate with the DoW to elevate their programs, empower their students, and build a resilient digital workforce for the future.
Join us at the Networking Reception to celebrate the future of cybersecurity in Virginia. Light hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be served, but please note this is not a full dinner. During the reception, we will honor students from across the Commonwealth who are committing to cybersecurity education, training, or careers as part of Virginia Cyber Signing Day. We will also recognize this year’s Virginia Cybersecurity Educators of the Year, celebrating instructors who have gone above and beyond to inspire and prepare the next generation of cyber talent. Come connect, celebrate, and support those shaping Virginia’s cyber future.
